Germany is well-known for its thriving LGBT culture and for having large communities in each of its larger cities. One of the many reasons that gay vacations to top LGBT hotspots like Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne are favorites with tourists from all over the world. As home to many world-famous Pride festivals, particularly in Cologne and Berlin, Germany is an exceptional choice for gay travel and provides a welcoming environment for a wonderful trip. As is the case elsewhere, city residents are generally more accepting than rural village inhabitants; however, those planning a gay vacation will find Germany to be a safe, welcoming destination. Cologne is often referred to as Germany's LGBT capital and is a wonderful choice as a gay travel destination. Perfectly poised on the shores of the Rhine River, Germany's oldest large city draws eager visitors from every corner of the globe to experience this beautiful city's rich history and culture, commune with its friendly, jovial inhabitants and take part in its thriving arts and culture scene. Cologne is home to the world-renowned Cologne Cathedral, Kolsch beer and more LGBT restaurants, clubs, cafes, bars and establishments than anyone could visit in just one gay vacation.

South Africa was a gay travel destination long before it became the first country in the world with a constitution outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation and the fifth country to legalize same-sex marriage. With the fall of apartheid and these two historic gay rights events, the allure of South Africa has increased substantially among both straight and gay travelers. From the glorious beaches of the Western Cape to the fast-paced excitement of Gauteng, South Africa is the gay-friendliest country on the continent and is an ideal location for a gay vacation. Gay vacations to South Africa often include stops or entire stays in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Pretoria where gay and lesbian travelers will find an array of gay-centered and gay-friendly events, activities and establishments. There are a wide variety of establishments that cater specifically to gay men, including guest houses exclusively for gay men, Camp David in Pretoria, which is a private all-male nude bar, and the bathhouses - called steam baths or steam saunas - in Cape Town. As in many areas, gay culture in South Africa centers primarily around activities and establishments for gay men;